Software tools vs manual spreadsheets

Started by Tim H. — 2 years ago — 3 views
Anyone using specialized audit software? Been doing everything in Excel but wondering if there's better tools out there. MDU in North Dakota bills are getting more complex and spreadsheet is maxing out.
I tried UBS PowerManager last year. Good for large commercial accounts but overkill for small audits. Memphis Light Gas & Water data imported well but software cost $3,000/year. Went back to Excel.
Built custom Access database for multi-client tracking. One-time setup effort but now I can run reports across all clients. Xcel Energy in Texas data fits perfectly and I can spot patterns across accounts.
Stick with Excel unless you're doing 50+ audits per year. Learn pivot tables and advanced formulas. I can analyze Dominion Energy Virginia bills faster in Excel than any software I've tried. Keep it simple.